Dibutyl sebacate

• USP–NFDibutyl Sebacate

butyl sebacate; DBS; decanedioic acid dibutyl ester; dibutyl decanedioate

Dibutyl decanedioate · [109-43-3]

UNII 4W5IH7FLNY · PubChem CID 7986

C18H34O4 · 314.46

Plasticiser

Typical concentrations: — · Dosage forms: Solid

Used as a plasticiser in film coatings for modified-release and enteric products, particularly with ethylcellulose and methacrylic acid copolymers, typically at about 10–30% of the polymer weight. It also plasticises polymers in other applications and is used as a flavouring in foods.

A clear, colourless, oily liquid with a faint odour.

Boiling point

about 345 °C

Melting point

about −10 °C

Specific gravity

about 0.935–0.939 at 20 °C

Solubility

practically insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, mineral oil and most organic solvents

Stable. Store in a well-closed container in a cool, dry place.

Incompatible with strong oxidising agents. It can soften some rubbers and plastics.

Made by esterifying sebacic acid, obtained from castor oil, with n-butanol in the presence of an acid catalyst, followed by purification by distillation.

Of low toxicity and generally non-irritant at the levels used in pharmaceutical coatings and foods.

Observe normal precautions for the quantity handled. Eye protection and gloves are recommended.

Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredient Database (oral capsules and tablets, including modified-release forms). Used as a flavouring substance in foods.

Dibutyl phthalate; diethyl phthalate; triethyl citrate; tributyl citrate; acetyltributyl citrate.

A common phthalate-free plasticiser. Because it is insoluble in water, it must be emulsified into aqueous polymer dispersions and given enough time to partition into the polymer particles before coating; coated products usually need curing to complete film formation.